The Mad Death (DVD)

The BBC's nightmarish vision of Britain under attack by a rabies outbreak from 1983.

Starring Richard Heffer, Barbara Kellerman and Ed Bishop.

"All things bright and beautiful"

Trailer

The Mad Death is a chilling three-part thriller that examined in terrifying detail what would happen if rabies hit the UK and infected the human population.

First shown in 1983, at the height of Britain's paranoia about the potential outbreak of the disease, The Mad Death horrified audiences and is still remembered for its grotesque depictions of victims foaming at the mouth, crazed foxes attacking the public and a haunting rendition of All Things Bright and Beautiful.

When a French woman cannot bear to leave her cat at home on a trip to Scotland, she smuggles it along. What she does not know is her pet is infected with deadly rabies, and passes the infection on in an encounter with a fox.

When a kind American (Ed Bishop) discovers the fox and takes it in, he soon becomes the unfortunate first human victim of The Mad Death. And once the horrified doctors have come to this realisation, it is too late. The virus has already infected most the animal population, and more of humankind.

It's up to Michael Hillard (Richard Heffer) and Ann Maitland (Barbara Kellerman) to join forces to fight the dreadful disease.

What the Press Said:

"A dark and sometimes shocking plot which is driven by some powerful performances. The emotional impact of certain scenes is enough to ensure you won't forget the serial any time soon." - Curious British Telly

"Perfectly pitched to keep the viewer engaged throughout...well acted, well directed and a compelling drama...still stands the test of time some 25 years after its initial broadcast" - Vulture Hound Magazine